Ross Castle: A Medieval Stronghold on Lough Leane

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Explore a 15th-century Irish chieftain's stronghold on Lough Leane, with guided tours and scenic trails in Killarney National Park.

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Ross Castle

Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park, is a well-preserved example of an Irish chieftain's stronghold. Built by the O'Donoghue clan, it later became associated with the Brownes of Killarney. The castle offers guided tours, providing a glimpse into medieval life and the castle's strategic importance in Irish history.

A brief summary to Ross Castle

Ross Rd, Killarney, Ross Island, Co. Kerry, V93 V304, IE
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Monday 9:30 am-5:45 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5:45 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5:45 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5:45 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5:45 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5:45 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5:45 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ross Castle.

Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the site can get very busy, and tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Take a boat trip from Ross Castle to experience the beauty of Lough Leane and Killarney National Park from a different perspective.
Explore the walking trails around Ross Island, such as the Library Point Trail, for scenic views and a peaceful escape.
Tickets can be purchased directly from the reception in the castle and cannot be pre-booked.

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Getting There

Walking

From Killarney town center, Ross Castle is approximately a 2.5-kilometer walk. Follow the Ross Road out of town, enjoying the scenery as you approach Ross Island. The walk takes around 30-40 minutes. There are well-maintained paths leading to the castle entrance.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Killarney town. A taxi from the town center to Ross Castle takes approximately 5 minutes and costs between €9 and €12. Taxi services include Sage Taxis, Killarney Taxi Rank, Killarney Taxi & Limo, and Flemings Taxi.
Parking

If driving, follow the Ross Road from Killarney. There are two free parking areas located about 100 meters from Ross Castle. Parking is free, but spaces fill up quickly during peak season. Alternative parking can be found in Killarney town, with a 30-40 minute walk to the castle.

Discover more about Ross Castle

Perched on the edge of Lough Leane, Ross Castle is an iconic landmark within Killarney National Park. Constructed in the late 15th century by the O'Donoghue Mór clan, the castle stands as a testament to medieval Irish architecture and the power of its chieftains. The name Ross Castle derives from the Irish 'Caisleán an Rois', meaning 'the Castle of the Promontory', reflecting its location on Ross Island.Originally, the castle comprised a tower house with square bartizans and a thick end wall, surrounded by a square bawn defended by round corner towers. Over the centuries, Ross Castle witnessed numerous power struggles and changes in ownership. It was one of the last strongholds in Munster to fall to Cromwell's forces in 1652, surrendering only when artillery was brought by boat onto the lake, fulfilling a local prophecy.Today, Ross Castle is managed by the Office of Public Works and is open to the public for guided tours. These tours provide access to the castle's interior, showcasing well-preserved rooms and offering insights into the lives of those who once inhabited it. Visitors can explore the castle's various levels, climb its steep, winding staircases, and admire the 16th and 17th-century furniture.Surrounding the castle, Ross Island offers scenic walking trails, including the Copper Mine Trail, Governors Rock Trail, and Library Point Trail. These trails lead to various points of interest and offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Boat trips are also available from the castle, providing a unique perspective of Ross Castle and the Killarney National Park from the water.